Exploring the Impact of Informal Learning Spaces on Children’s Writing Skills

In education, we often think of learning as something that happens in a classroom. However, a new study by SEAE member Aspa Baroutsis shows that this traditional view misses out on the significant role that informal learning environments play in children’s development, particularly in writing skills. Baroutsis’ research looks at how children interact with spaces outside of the classroom, such as their homes and local communities, and how these spaces contribute to their literacy development.

The study looks at how children’s writing practices are not confined to school but extend into their everyday lives. From scribbling at home to using digital devices, children are constantly practising their writing skills, whether engaging with a book or typing on a tablet. This research challenges the idea that literacy development only happens in formal education settings and points out the important role that home-based and community activities play in shaping children’s abilities.

Baroutsis uses a sociomaterial approach to examine the relationship between people, tools, and spaces in children’s literacy development. This method highlights the importance of everyday interactions—like writing notes at home or engaging with interactive digital tools—showing that children’s learning doesn’t stop when they leave the classroom. These informal spaces offer rich opportunities for growth and should be seen as essential to a child’s education.

The implications of this research are important for both educators and parents. For educators, it’s clear that understanding children’s literacy development requires more than just classroom activities. By recognising the value of home and community-based learning experiences, teachers can create more holistic and effective approaches to teaching writing. Parents, too, can play a vital role by encouraging writing at home and creating environments that foster learning in everyday settings.

Overall, Baroutsis’ work offers valuable insights into the broader context of literacy development. It invites us to reconsider how we think about education and how we support children in developing writing skills. By recognising the importance of informal learning spaces, we can create a more inclusive approach to literacy education, one that draws on the diverse environments where children are constantly learning and practising their skills.

To learn more about the study or to explore its findings further, read the full research here. It offers practical insights on how we can better support children’s literacy development both inside and outside the classroom.